What are the Most Common Uses for Tetracycline?

Tetracycline is an antibiotic most commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections. Some of the common infections the antibiotic is used to treat include a variety of bacterial infections, acne, and stomach ulcers. The drug is not effective in treating conditions and illnesses resulting from a viral infection, such as influenza.

The medication is available in several different forms, including liquid, tablets, and capsules. Other drugs in the same class of medication include doxycycline and minocycline. Common brand names include Sumycin® and Achromycin®.

Treating bacterial infections is one of the most common uses for tetracycline. Bacterial infections such as Lyme disease, pink eye, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are among the bacterial infections the antibiotic is prescribed to treat. Other bacterial infections which respond well to tetracycline treatment include respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, cholera, and various skin infections.

Tetracycline may also be prescribed for other bacterial infections. This may include urinary tract infections and cholera. People allergic to penicillin may also be prescribed this alternative antibiotic for the treatment of infections including syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.

Bacteria are one of the common causes of acne. If bacteria is the cause of a patient's acne, a physician may prescribe this medication to treat the condition. When used to treat acne, the medication helps control bacterial growth and reduces inflammation.

Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori), a bacteria that causes peptic ulcers, is another bacterial infection that the antibiotic is prescribed to treat. These ulcers are typically located in the stomach or first section of the intestines, referred to as the duodenum, and can be quite painful if left untreated. The medication prohibits the growth of H. Pylori and helps heal the ulcer. Tetracycline will often be prescribed in combination with a proton pump inhibitor and other antibiotics, such as metronidazole.

Proper treatment of bacterial infections, acne, and peptic ulcers with any medication depends on taking the medication properly and following physician orders. Medication should be taken in a timely manner and until finished. Tetracycline can be made less effective when taken in conjunction with antacids, iron supplements, and laxatives that contain magnesium. A physician should be informed if a patient is taking and additional medications or herbal supplements.

When taking tetracycline, some precautions should be taken. Patients with liver disease, kidney disease, or having surgery in the near future should avoid taking tetracycline. In addition, pregnant women should avoid taking the medication because of the potential dangers and risks to the woman and the fetus.